Health Authorities Conduct Ebola Response Drill at SSR International Airport

As part of Mauritius’ preparedness and response efforts against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), an Ebola Simulation Exercise was carried out this morning at the Arrival Terminal of the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Plaisance. The exercise was organised by the Ministry of Health and Wellness in collaboration with Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd (AML), Airport Terminal Operations Ltd (ATOL), and other relevant stakeholder agencies.

The exercise aimed to assess the effectiveness and responsiveness of the various agencies involved in the event of a suspected EVD case entering Mauritius. It also sought to ensure that the strict protocols currently in place remain effective under operational pressure, and to evaluate inter-agency coordination through the mobilisation of airport stakeholders, including medical personnel and security forces, for the identification, management, and isolation of any potential suspected case.

The Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo; the Junior Minister, Mrs Anishta Babooram; the Chief Executive Officer of AML and ATOL, Mr Lormus Bundhoo; as well as other personalities attended the exercise.

In a statement, Minister Bachoo reassured that vigilance remains at the highest level with regard to EVD, while highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage cases of chikungunya, dengue, Mpox and leptospirosis in Mauritius. He further noted that a preparatory meeting had been convened ahead of the simulation exercise to identify and assess possible scenarios.

Speaking about the exercise, he indicated that three potential scenarios had been identified: the detection of a suspected infected passenger on board the aircraft, at the airport through thermal screening, or at the immigration counter. He explained that, in each case, the established protocol requires the immediate involvement of the medical officer stationed at the airport, together with officers from the sanitary division, to assess whether the individual presents symptoms consistent with EVD.

Should the individual be suspected or confirmed to have EVD, the necessary arrangements would be made for his or her transfer to the New Souillac Hospital for appropriate medical care and treatment. A quarantine facility at Riambel would also be activated to accommodate individuals who may have come into contact with the infected person, as well as those presenting partial EVD symptoms.

Minister Bachoo further emphasised that the Ministry of Health and Wellness, in collaboration with AML and ATOL, would continue to closely monitor the situation and implement all necessary measures to prevent the introduction and spread of EVD in Mauritius.

16 June 2026

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Topics: Health, Others